Over the next five years he played mostly with the Leafs but also some in the minor pros. In 1953-54 he missed about half the season due to a shuolder injury.

In the pre-season of 1956-57, Bolton suffered a badly broken leg. He tried playing for the Leafs that season but could not make it back. A comeback try in 1957-58 with the Rochester Americans also failed.

In the NHL Bolton played in 235 games and scored 10 goals and 51 assists.